bus to work faqs
What is the process for applying for a Bus to Work ticket?
You will need to complete the application form for your employer on the Reading Buses website, including entering the verification code to show that you are eligible. Once you’ve submitted the form, you will be taken to the payment page to purchase the ticket online. Reading Buses will then process payment and post your ticket to your address. A copy of your application will be shared with your employer to help verify you are employed by this organisation.
When do I need to apply for my ticket?
The deadline for applying for a ticket is the 17th of each month.
Can I choose the start date of my ticket?
No. Tickets purchased via the Bus to Work scheme will only start on the 1st of each month.
Can I choose the payment date for my ticket?
No. For monthly direct debit payments, tickets purchased via the Bus to Work scheme will be processed on the 20th of the month. This will remain the regular monthly payment date. For one-off payments, payment will be processed within 4 working days of completing the payment transaction.
Can I spread the cost of a 90-day ticket?
No. The 90-day ticket needs to be purchased up-front. Only the annual ticket can be paid for via monthly direct-debit.
How do I receive my ticket?
Once payment has been received, Reading Buses will send your smartcard ticket in the post to your specified delivery address. The annual ticket lasts for 12 months and you will not receive a new card each month.
Can I buy my discounted ticket at the shop, over the phone or from the bus driver?
No. The Bus to Work discounted ticket is only available to purchase online.
Can anyone else use my Bus to Work smartcard?
As your employer must sign up to the scheme, the discount is for your exclusive use and is not to be shared with anyone. Cards may be withdrawn if we believe that they are being used fraudulently.
Can I cancel my ticket before it arrives and do I get a refund?
Once you have authorised payment, you are committed to making the payment(s). If you wish to apply for a refund, please email [email protected]
Can I cancel after I’ve started using it and do I get a refund?
If you wish to apply for a refund, please email [email protected]
What happens when my ticket has expired?
You will need to re-apply for a new ticket. Remember to apply before the 17th of the final month in order for a new ticket to be delivered in time to start on the 1st of the following month.
What if I lose my smartcard?
The cost to replace a lost or damaged smartcard is £10. You will need to email [email protected]
Who holds my data?
Reading Buses and Go Travel Solutions hold the data collected on the application form. It is used for verification purposes and to enable bus tickets to be processed. Payment information is held by GoCardless Ltd in order to take payment.
What happens with my data?
Your data is used for the purpose of retailing and delivering your chosen bus ticket. Basic information about you may be shared with your selected employer to verify that you are eligible to receive the Bus to Work discount. No payment details will be shared by GoCardless with a 3rd party.
What happened to the salary sacrifice scheme?
The law changed on 1st April 2018 that meant bus tickets were no longer eligible to receive the tax benefits offered by salary sacrifice. The Reading Buses Bus to Work scheme is designed to replace the salary sacrifice method by enabling staff at certain employers to receive a discount on the standard season ticket price but without a tax saving.